ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — The historic Jammer’s Skating rink, built almost 75 years ago, has now has been purchased and renovated by Tamika McDuffie.
Now renamed "Skate 698," kids can come in and take a spin around the rink while also learning in the STEM center, where kids can explore science during after-school activities.
McDuffie says providing a fun and safe space for children in Orangeburg is important.
“I was very interested in providing an alternative to the streets and a safe place for kids to come and be kids and have a good time,” said McDuffie. “In the space where I typically work, I see a lot of children coming from this area incarcerated and so forth like that, so I want to be a part of the solution instead of being a part of the problem. And so it’s very important in my opinion to keep this place open so the kids have something positive to do.”
For more information about SKATE698, visit their Facebook page.
And across town, MEA Outdoor Films is an outdoor movie theater that offers mystery movie night open to public on Saturdays.
Enisha Adams and her husband Marlon, who opened this outdoor theater, say the space is unique.
“There’s plenty serenity out here, there's plenty of space where guests can come in, they can enjoy a safe environment," Adams said. "We have clean facilities, the restrooms are amazing. We always get compliments on our restroom and the food. You know, it’s a beautiful place and I would love for the community to give it an opportunity."
Adams says it's important for residents to have fun activities in their community.
“It’s important for places like this to exist in Orangeburg because we’re always traveling out of town to look for entertainment," said Adams. "We’re always thinking that ok we have to go to our extended areas outside areas you know to find fun things to do but if you look right here in your hometown its right here, fun is here and its what you make it.”
Skate 698 has their grand reopening Saturday at 2pm and later than evening, MEA Outdoor Films has mystery movie night.